Article by Sébastien Seluse, Saint-Gobain collaborator
Located in Verviers, Maison Marie-Louise is a shelter for men facing extreme hardship.
Here, men who are alone, sometimes straight from the streets, often battered by life, find a space to breathe, rebuild, and regain their footing.
I speak from experience: I had the "luck" of staying there during two crucial moments in my life. The first time, I had just left adolescence behind. I was lost, with no direction, and living on the streets. The second time was after I returned from Corsica, where I had spent four years. I had left on a whim, abandoning everything without telling anyone or sorting out any paperwork. The result? No municipal registration, no social rights, no health insurance... nothing.
Maison Marie-Louise gave me a roof over my head, a real bed, good meals, and, most importantly, a peaceful place where I could finally settle down, sort out my papers, and focus on what really matters: rebuilding my life. Thanks to their support, I was able to find some stability, and today I have the honour of representing the non-profit in a vital project supported by the Saint-Gobain Foundation.
After part of the building collapsed this past winter, the situation became urgent: everything needs to be rebuilt. The Foundation's support, covering the complete reconstruction of the roof, is far more than just financial aid. It is a true springboard for restarting the worksite, bringing the place back to life, and continuing to welcome those in need. Without this gesture, none of it would be possible.
This place is not just temporary shelter. It is a helping hand extended by an incredible multidisciplinary team—a point of stability, a second chance. And today, thanks to the Saint-Gobain Foundation, that second chance can continue to exist.
